Pregnant

[karyanne24]

Hello. I am pregnant and I was wondering if you guys had any money saving tips for me for preparing for a baby. Such as what are necessary items, what items are a waste of money and whether or not buying some things second hand is a good idea. This is my first child and I am worried about the financial aspects of having a child. I am 24 and I suppose that I am not that bad off, because I do have a job, I am married and I have medical insurance, but it sounds like babies cost a fortune!

[SiMaMa]

As for me, I never saw anything wrong with second hand items, depending on what they were. My son has a lot of clothing and toys from thrift stores and yard sales. As long as they are in good condition and look safe, and can be properly cleaned, it should be ok. I also got lots of things from friends and family members whose children had out grown them.

Car seats are best brought brand new, or if not at least from someone you know and know that they are not that old and have never been in a car accident. You can often find baby items on ebay or on craigs list in large quantities for much cheaper than you would anywhere else.

If nothing else, baby showers are a great way to get things for your little one. Most places that sell baby stuff (wal mart, target etc) have online registries for baby showers so you can give people an idea as to want you want. Good luck, I know how you feel because had the same fears when I was pregnant. Once you get all the gear and stuff, they aren't THAT expensive. . .

[Jill_at_StorkRadio]

I agree -- part of our money saving plan includes -- borrowing stuff from friends (even maternity stuff) and this has been HUGE. Craigs list. But look at baby bargains or consumer reports and they will tell you what not to get used (like a pack n play or car seat). Also, if you look at the baby bargains book they rate the different brands and you will see that more expensive is not always better. For example, the crib we bought at Ikea (Lesvick $117) was given an a minus rating while some of the $400 cribs at BRU had a C rating. Even if you don't want to buy the book sit in the store and read it!

Also, register early. Not many people will buy you stuff off your registry (which is annoying) or do so super early but at least have it avaiable so you can get what you want or return things to get what you want. Plus, even if people don't buy off of it you get free samples and coupons and if you buy stuff yourself but off the registry the return policy is better and at BRU you get a certain amount of $$ back off of each purchase.

Good luck!

[gifts4newmoms]

Hi Karryanne24!

Don't fret, it will all be okay. The other two moms have given great tips for you! I would like to chime in and say that my best word of advice would be to WAIT TO BUY ANYTHING UNTIL AFTER YOUR BABY SHOWER! Buying things before your baby shower will surely cause you to have two of everything, which you surely don't need. You will be suprised at how much stuff you will receive just from the baby shower. After my baby shower I only had to buy a crib! Everything else was provided for me! I didn't have to buy my baby anything for 1 whole year atleast! Invite lots of people! All the family and friends you can get! Buying used items is not a problem! Just wash all clothing yourself, and avoid purchasing the items mentioned by the other moms. Be sure to check with any mothers that you know pretty well because I'm sure they are more than willing to get rid of old baby items. I would like to suggest a gift for you as a new mom. Go to www.lifecreations.etsy.com. Good luck with everything!!!